Old Library Shield No.3 - The University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, U.K. - Coats of Arms on Waymarking.com

Coat of arms of Birmingham University were one of three heraldic escutcheons that stood above the entrance to the former University Main Library. Today the three heraldic escutcheons are part of a display to the south of the University's new Green Heart.

The shield of the University of Birmingham's ‘Official Blazon is shown below:
Per chevron, the chief per pale gules and azure, in dexter a lion rampant with two heads, in sinister a mermaid holding in the dexter hand a mirror and in the sinister a comb Or, the base sable charged with an open book proper, with two buckles and straps and edges of the third, inscribed "Per ardua ad alta". (visit link)

The lion and the mermaid featured on the arms of Mason Science College and the arms of Sir Josiah Mason the founder of the College in 1875. Mason Science College was the precursor and nucleus of the University of Birmingham. (visit link)

The open book is a common symbol for universities and schools. The motto "Per ardua ad alta" means "Through hardship, great heights are reached". (visit link)

An information board close to the new display gives the following information about the University of Birmingham shield.

The University of Birmingham
The University shield depicts a mermaid holding a mirror and a comb and a double headed lion both symbols of the Mason family and Mason Science College. These are painted in gold upon fields of red and blue, the colours of the University. The shield also includes an open book, representing the University’s royal charter, granted by Queen Victoria in 1900. Upon its pages the University motto is inscribed, Per Ardua ad Alta: Through effort, to high things.

Bearer of Coat of Arms: University / College Full name of the bearer: University of Birmingham Where is Coat of Arms installed (short description) ?: University of Birmingham Campus (formerly above the entrance to the University Main Library). Material / Design: Stone Blazon (heraldic description): Per chevron, the chief per pale gules and azure, in dexter a lion rampant with two heads, in sinister a mermaid holding in the dexter hand a mirror and in the sinister a comb Or, the base sable charged with an open book proper, with two buckles and straps and edges of the third, inscribed "Per ardua ad alta" Address: The University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B15 2TT, United Kingdom. Web page about the structure where is Coat of Arms installed (if exists): Not listed Web page about the bearer of Coat of Arms (if exists): Not listed

Visit Instructions:
Logging requirements: Please upload your own personal photo of the coat of arms. You or your GPS can be in the picture, but it’s not a requirement.

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Date Logged Log   06/19/2019 Poole/Freeman visited it